On Friday afternoon, however, he reversed course when he terminated his management staff and told them he and his wife, Anthology co-owner Marsha Berkson, were divorcing.

“Howard confirmed to us today that Anthology is closing,” said Casey Pukl, Anthology’s marketing manager. “No reason was given to us.”

But that may not be the end of the story for the 272-capacity Anthology, which opened in 2007 and fast became a showcase venue for national jazz, rock and pop acts, including such Grammy Award-winners as Wynton Marsalis, Chick Corea and, just last month, Aaron Neville.

“Starting in November, the Berksons began a national search for buyers,” said Michael Pritchard, Anthology’s now-former director of music operations.

The outcome of that search is unknown at this time and neither Howard nor Marsha Berkson responded to requests to speak on the record Friday night.

However, in a letter dated Jan. 5, 2013, and addressed "To all of our loyal Anthology Staff," Berkson wrote:

"By now many of you have heard that Anthology will be closing for business indefinitely. I know this is a shock to all of you considering that (Thursday) afternoon at our staff meeting I announced the reopening of Anthology for February 1st. Regrettably, that same evening I received some unexpected and unforeseen news which forced me to reconsider and reverse my original decision to reopen. I sincerely apologize for the emotional roller coaster ride I have put you on. You certainly know this was the last thing I intended.

"Considering our almost 6 year history, and the many years that most of you have been with Anthology, it will most certainly create an economic hardship for some of you because of the relatively short notice. However, I take solace in knowing that so many careers here have been advanced over the years because of Anthology’s reputation, and moreover, I strongly believe that the skills and training you have gained here should provide you with an excellent opportunity to secure your next place of employment quickly. I am certainly available for any references you may need."

The abrupt closing seemed to blindside at least some members of Anthology’s management staff.

“(Thursday) the management and the entire staff were under the impression that we all had a job. And then, today (Friday), we were all let go. But the (final) checks (we received) were cut for Jan. 3, 2013, which means that whatever happened (Friday) was already figured out (Thursday). We were told Anthology would only open if it was (under) a new owner.”